AI v human – do you need proof?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly playing a role in professional services, and it can be a valuable resource when used appropriately.

AI has many uses that bring about undeniable benefits. For example, in healthcare it can be used in diagnosing conditions, and in the world of finance it can help to detect fraud. We do not refute that there are many advantages to using AI, but we should all be aware of the disadvantages.  

When it comes to writing, editing and summarising the written word, AI is best used as a ‘virtual assistant’. However, for some it has become a substitute for their efforts, rather than a collaborator in their task.

One of the dangers of AI is an overdependence leading to insufficient human oversight and little or no scrutiny of the accuracy and suitability of the AI-produced work. If we become overly reliant on AI, and overconfident in the results, there is a danger that we will become less reliant on, and less confident in, our own skills and judgement. We could also obstruct our pathway to professional development, enhanced skills and the attainment of expertise.

As reliance on AI is increasing, there is also growing awareness of limitations, mistakes and unreliability . There really is no substitute for the judgement and reasoning of a human with appropriate skills, knowledge and competencies, and proven expertise.

If a company’s goal is to produce communications that are clear, accessible and understandable, their documents should be written by a knowledgeable person who can make sure that the text is accurate, complete, and meets any relevant guidance and recommendations, as well as all regulatory and legal requirements.

To ensure a document is clear and unambiguous, it should be edited by someone who has proven expertise in clear communication, and who:

·        respects the writer’s specialist knowledge

·        edits from the perspective of a layperson and interprets the text as they might, without being clouded by the writer’s specialist knowledge

·        can spot language issues such as vagueness and the potential for misunderstanding, which a writer may not spot as they are too close to the subject, and

·        can be involved in ongoing discussions, have their work and suggestions challenged, provide further suggestions and work with the writer to refine the document.

If AI-generated text is to be used, it should at least be proofread by a skilled editor to check the spelling, structure, punctuation and grammatical accuracy of the document (including punctuation).

We all need to heed the warning, as given by AI tools, that AI-generated results may not be accurate.